Key developments:

• US and Russia meet for a second round of talks in Istanbul focused on embassy operations.
• Discussions are centered around stabilizing diplomatic functions after years of strife.
• Ukraine-related issues are not part of the current talks according to US officials.

The second round of talks between US and Russia commenced today in Istanbul, focusing on normalizing their embassies' operations, which have faced significant restrictions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Both delegations assembled at the Russian Consulate General to discuss how to stabilize their diplomatic missions after years of intense strains in relations.

The negotiation led by Russia's Ambassador to the US, Alexander Darchiev, and US Deputy Assistant Secretary, Sonata Coulter, aims to tackle operational difficulties, including the challenges in credential issuance for diplomats and issues pertaining to diplomatic properties.

US State Department spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, emphasized that "there are no political or security issues on the agenda" for these discussions, explicitly stating that matters related to Ukraine are "absolutely not on the agenda." Reports suggest that the meeting will be shorter compared to past sessions, which lasted over six hours.

In previous discussions, both sides have raised concerns about the restricted movements of diplomats and the adverse impact of Western sanctions. Furthermore, reports indicate that the US has placed restrictions on several Russian diplomatic properties, complicating operational logistics for both countries.

For detailed coverage, visit TRT.